If a Valentine’s gift is out of budget this year, don’t stress—there are hundreds of sweet, light-hearted ways to say ‘I love you’ that don’t cost a cent. It’s about thoughtfulness and putting in the extra effort.
Here are 7 ideas for an unbeatable no-spend Valentine’s gift, when the budget is really tight:
1. Give them a 24-hour ‘yes day’
Agree to say ‘yes’ to everything (within reason) that your partner requests for a full day – this often ends up being more fun and adventurous than you would expect. Present them with a hand-drawn voucher if you’d like to go the extra mile.
2. Whip up something sweet
You’d be surprised at what you could whip up at home with some of the basics – pancakes, apple crumble, malva pudding, shortbread and even lollipops. Get creative with whatever’s available but don’t steer too far off the recipe…
3. Write them ‘open when’ letters
Write them a few letters for different situations (e.g., ‘Open when you need a laugh’ or ‘Open when you miss me’).
4. Draw up a few ‘love coupons’
Design a little love booklet to gift your partner. Include fun coupons like ‘One foot massage,’ ‘Movie night of your choice,’ or ‘Breakfast in bed.’ Bonus points for fun illustrations or paintings.
5. Make an ‘I love you” list
Write down 50 (or 100!) reasons you love your partner and present it as a surprise.
6. Plan a “Chopped” style cooking challenge
Raid your pantry and fridge, then challenge each other to create a dish using random ingredients. The winner gets bragging rights (and maybe a kiss).
7. Portrait painting date
Plan an evening of painting and laughs – no artistic skills required. Using a canvas or paper, and some paint, sit across from your partner and spend the evening painting one another’s portraits, with a good playlist going in the background. Don’t reveal your work until after!
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